Plans for new Castlemagner wastewater plant welcomed by Cork TD

Uisce Éireann has applied for permission to build a new wastewater treatment plant in Castlemagner, which a local TD has called “a crucial milestone” for the area which will make future housing and development possible.

A decision is due by Cork County Council on August 18 on the utility body’s application for permission to construct a new Wastewater Treatment Plant (WwTP) to replace the existing public and private WwTP’s.

The development will consist of inlet works, primary treatment, secondary treatment, discharge works, sludge treatment works, a stormwater storage tank and pumping station.

Also included in the plans lodged recently are a new solar farm to provide a source of renewable energy to partly supply the WwTP, a control and administration building and ancillary works including the upgrade of the existing entrance and access road from the L1042 roadway.

Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North-West, Michael Moynihan, described the application for permission as “a significant step” which it follows years of work to advance a project deemed essential for the village’s future development and housing needs.

Mr Moynihan said: 

“I have been a keen advocate for the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Castlemagner for several years so it’s very welcome to see the planning application now submitted to Cork County Council.

“Having engaged with the relevant Ministers and Irish Water, we had already secured Castlemagner’s inclusion in Irish Water’s Small Towns and Villages Growth Programme, a critical step that prioritised the development of this much-needed infrastructure.

“The submission of this planning application is a testament to the hard work and collaboration that has gone into pushing this vital project forward for Castlemagner.”

He added: “It’s well recognised that water infrastructure is one of the key enablers for housing and this new wastewater treatment plant is essential for the growth of the community, enabling much needed housing development.

“With a decision due from Cork County Council mid-August, I am committed to ensuring the project advances as swiftly as possible, and will continue to engage with all stakeholders to expedite the delivery of this critical infrastructure for the people of Castlemagner.”